Blog 1: Navigating First Week Back

Hello there, reader! Just to give you some context, one of the major assignments in 302 is for us to write blogs about our project. Reflection on Action. So I will be sharing a short story about how my week went, what I did, and what learnings I discovered. For this week’s reflection, I will (attempt) use the CARL framework method from the University of Edinburgh reflection Toolkit.

Context

The first two weeks of the semester were formation overload. We were introduced to the different deliverables we need to accomplish each week. Although the first few weeks were relatively quiet, it was a crucial stage for us to set our bases and establish the project structure. Our first task was to set up our project's Miro board and set the important due dates, allowing us to have an overview of everything. We were also introduced to our stream leaders and project partners. In the first week, we had the opportunity to talk to Charlotte from Resilio. She spoke about their past and current projects, which were unique and insightful. In the second week, we went around CBD with Alex Bonham from Waitemata Local Board and explored their current projects and potential sites for our projects. These two meetings were very insightful and helpful as they got us to think more deeply about our objectives and project direction. 

During the first few weeks, I have several tasks to accomplish. First, I need to research more case studies to find existing places that could serve as inspiration. Location is also crucial, as I need to understand the restrictions and limitations for designing the structure. Additionally, I must continue working on my report and ensure it aligns with the template provided. I also need to refine my chosen design process and align it more closely with my project's direction. For this capstone, I am using Resilio’s design process.  

Action 

To be fair, there wasn't much action or decision-making in the first week. It was primarily a preparatory stage before finalising decisions. My first task this week was to finish my project timeline. I set up the due dates I need to be aware of. As someone prone to forgetting and misreading information, I wrote the crucial dates in my physical diary and phone calendar. An essential reminder for myself whilst completing my project timeline was to be realistic. We schedule everything however we want efficiently but overlook personal life and work commitments. So, keeping in mind that those can slow me down, I created a strict yet flexible schedule that allows unforeseen changes.  

Regarding completing the Ethic Module, I aimed to accomplish one section each day. This approach was chosen because the module is a lengthy and time-consuming activity. If left until the last minute, I might not finish and read it correctly. Whilst going through each section, I took important notes to remember in case I need to apply for consent when I decide to involve participants in my project.     

At this stage, I am currently thinking of potential challenges I will and might encounter. One of these is what output I would like to produce. I have several questions in mind: 

• Since I am designing a space, to what extent should my design go?  

• Which location should i focus on? I 

• If I want to build something, what is the main application/technology should I be using?

• Should I produce a physical model?  

• If plan A doesn't work, what should my Plan B-Z be? 

The list goes on. The location was something I had to decide on soon. My initial location was Takutai Lawn behind Britomart, but after walking with Alex, I discovered more potential sites I could work on. This experience also made me realise how much of Auckland CBD I have yet to explore and how many spots could be improved.   

I have also continued analysing my case studies and further research on how parks can affect the mental well-being of CBD workers (which I still ought to finish). In one of the case studies, I came across a term called Environmental Generational Amnesia. This idea suggests that each generation perceives the environment into which it is born, no matter how developed/urbanised, as the norm (and these environments are usually in poor living conditions)(Kahlenborn & Strehmel, 2020). As a result, we often become more distant from nature, leading to not protecting nature, which results in further destruction and less nature to interact with.  

In the coming weeks, I plan to complete the ethics module. Additionally, I need to finalise my location to conduct more in-depth research. I will also begin the ideation phase by gathering structural inspiration. I usually choose an architect or architect to inspire my spatial projects. This helps me visualise what my structure or space might look like.   

In the coming weeks, my plan is to complete the ethics module. Additionally, I need to finalise my location so I can conduct more in-depth research. I will also begin the ideation phase by gathering structural inspiration. For my spatial projects, I usually choose an architect or an architecture for inspiration. This helps me visualise what my structure or space might look like. 

Results

By doing the project timeline, I am 80% confident I would not miss any due dates. Having an overview of everything ensures I have allocated sufficient time for each phase, from initial research to the final presentation. It also allows me to allocate resources efficiently. For instance, I would need assistance with technologies like CAD programmes and know if someone is available to help.  

A timeline enables smooth progress checks and helps obtain valuable feedback, identifying phases on which I must work more. It is also helpful for my stakeholders and stream leaders to freely check on my progress without repeatedly asking for updates. Completing the ethics module gradually resulted in a nearly stress-free completion. For future improvement, I need to increase my productivity and try not to let stress affect me as much.  

Learnings

One important lesson I’ve learned is that I can be organised, and that being organised is highly beneficial. I also discovered new concepts, such as "Environmental Generational Amnesia," which I came across while reviewing case studies. Additionally, through lectures, I explored different approaches to writing reflections. Previously, I would simply answer questions directly, but I’ve found that following a structured format improves clarity for readers. In the coming weeks, I plan to focus on productive and act on what I have planned. It is easy to plan something but acting on it is another point.